NBA Player News

Thomas hasn’t played in the league since he was with the Hornets during the 2021-22 season. He joined the G-League’s Salt Lake City Stars last week and was immediately an offensive force, which earned him a short-term deal with Phoenix. He could certainly see minutes as a reserve, and while it is unlikely that he makes much of a fantasy impact, he is worth keeping an eye on.

Ayton is back after missing over two weeks with a finger injury. He’ll start, as will Avdija, who fills in for the injured Jerami Grant. Avdija should be slotted into lineups wherever available, as he played well off the bench before Grant’s injury.

Cain was absent from the initial injury report. His absence leaves the Pelicans down another potential contributor on the wing, but he was unlikely to impact fantasy basketball if available.

Carter is back after missing 12 games with a foot injury, but he will be limited to 14-16 minutes. That protects the fantasy values of Bitadze and Moritz Wagner in the short term. Also of note is Suggs’ return after sitting out Monday’s win over the Hornets due to injury. He steps in for Gary Harris, who is out with a hamstring strain.

Collins was originally listed as questionable, but is now trending in the wrong direction. Drew Eubanks figures to get the start and play at least 30 minutes if Collins doesn’t suit up Wednesday.

Highsmith and Smith have been upgraded from questionable to available. While there isn’t much need to consider rostering Smith, Highsmith is worthy of consideration in deep leagues.

Conley missed the last three games dealing with the toe injury. Donte DiVincenzo and Nickeil Alexander-Walker have each seen starts in Conley’s absence, but both will return to the bench and play less minutes now that the 37-year-old has returned to the lineup.

Murphy will not play after playing 40 minutes in Monday’s loss to the Pacers. With Brandon Ingram also out, Brandon Boston Jr. and Jordan Hawkins (if available) will have added fantasy value. Boston is the safer stream since Hawkins is a game-time decision.

Ingram missed Monday’s game against the Pacers and practice on Tuesday so his absence isn’t a big surprise. Javonte Green is in line for another start with Brandon Boston Jr. and Jordan Hawkins seeing additional minutes off the bench.

Ball is officially available after the Hornets listed him as probable on the initial injury report. He’ll look to extend his streak of games with 35 points or more to four straight.